Friday, May 22, 2009

Riverboat foundation awards $700k

38 local organizations are getting more than $700,000 in grant money from the Washington County Riverboat Foundation. Some of the biggest allotments include $90,000 for athletic facilities improvements at Mid Prairie Schools, more than $78,000 for the Washington Area Softball Association to build an indoor hitting facility and $75,000 for the Brighton Fire Department to purchase a pumper.

Washington to borrow $3.5 million

Washington is levying $3.5 million in bonds for a new water tower, and a new sewer plant. City Administrator Dave Plyman says the debt will be paid off over a 20 year period with property taxes. He says water rates will also have to be increased. Plyman says the money will also be used to purchase land for the new sewer plant to be located on. He says some of it might be used to expand Elm Grove Cemetery.

Vacancy on Kalona zoning commission

Kalona City Council members have yet to fill a vacancy on the city's planning and zoning commission. City Clerk Karen Christener says members tabled action on the matter at this week's meeting. She says the council is also considering quotes for roof and siding replacement at the community center. Councilors did approve street closures for Kalona Days. They tabled a request to serve alcohol at an outdoor area during the festival.

Washington Choral: "Let Freedom Ring"

The Washington Choral Society is kicking off the Memorial Day Weekend tonight (5/22) with the "Let Freedom Ring" concert. The organization's Mike Jewel says the event is a way to honor veterans, and those currently serving in the armed forces. The concert is this evening at 7:00 at Washington's United Methodist Church. Admission is 10 dollars for adults and five for students. Veterans and active military members get in free.

Entertainer this weekend at YMCA

Family entertainer Mike Presby will be at the Washington YMCA tonight and tomorrow. Presby describes himself as an illusionist and magician. His act includes comedy and live animals. Presby says his show is geared towards audience members of all ages. He'll put on his act at the -Y- this evening at 7:00 and again tomorrow afternoon at 12:30. For more information or to get tickets contact the YMCA of Washington.

KCII announces scholarships


Megan Adams of Mid Prairie and Riley Sheetz of Keota are the recipients of the 2009 KCII Business to Business scholarships. KCII General Manager Joe Nichols says these scholarships are especially important during these tough economic times. Nichols encourages area high school juniors to look for applications for the KCII Business to Business scholarships next spring.

RFL Meeting

Relay for Life of Louisa County is having a meeting June 1st to share the importance of the event with local residents. The meeting is at 7:00 pm at the L & M Elementary School cafeteria. For more information, or to volunteer contact Kierstan Peck at 319-653-3768.